Lionel Messi arrives in Kolkata with Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, sparking massive celebrations as fans turn the airport into a festival during the GOAT India Tour 2025.
Lionel Messi’s arrival in Kolkata late Friday night turned the city’s airport into a sea of chants, flags, and celebrations, as thousands of fans gathered to welcome the Argentine football legend. Accompanied by Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s touchdown marked the beginning of a three-day visit to India under the G.O.A.T India Tour 2025.
For a city known for its deep-rooted love for football, the moment felt nothing short of historic.
Lionel Messi’s Arrival Triggers Unprecedented Fan Craze
Despite the late hour, massive crowds assembled outside Kolkata Airport, hoping to catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi. Supporters waved flags, held posters, and continuously chanted his name, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.
Security was tightened as Messi, along with his teammates, was escorted swiftly from the airport to his hotel. Visuals from the area showed roads lined with fans, many of whom had travelled from nearby districts and other states just to witness the moment.
Why Lionel Messi’s Visit Is Special for Kolkata
Kolkata’s relationship with football runs deep, and Lionel Messi’s visit has been widely seen as a once-in-a-lifetime moment for the city. Fans described the mood as festive, emotional, and unforgettable.
Several supporters said they waited for hours outside the airport, driven purely by the desire to welcome one of the greatest footballers the sport has ever seen.
What Lionel Messi Will Do in Kolkata
Private Meet, Statue Inauguration, and GOAT Concert
On Saturday morning, Lionel Messi will attend a private meet-and-greet at his hotel, with several prominent city personalities, including Tollywood actors, expected to be present.
From the hotel, Messi will virtually inaugurate a 70-foot statue, dedicated to his impact on world football.
Later, after 11:30 am, Lionel will head to Yuva Bharati Krirangan to attend the highly anticipated GOAT concert, organised to celebrate his legendary career.
Big Names Set to Felicitate Lionel Messi
The GOAT concert will see West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee felicitate Lionel Messi at the stadium. Actor and Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan arrived in Kolkata late Friday night to attend the event. Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly is also expected to take part in the felicitation ceremony.
Lionel Messi’s Next Destination After Kolkata
After completing his packed schedule in Kolkata, Messi is scheduled to fly to Hyderabad around 2 pm on Saturday. He is likely to meet Rahul Gandhi during his visit there.
A Night Kolkata Football Fans Will Never Forget
For football lovers in Kolkata, Lionel Messi’s visit is more than just an appearance. It is a celebration of passion, loyalty, and the city’s enduring connection with the game.
As chants echoed through the night and streets overflowed with emotion, Kolkata once again showed why it is considered one of India’s most football-crazy cities — turning Messi’s arrival into a festival that will be remembered for years.